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Self Publish vs License Which Is Better For Your Board Game?

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Board games are a great way to spend time with family and friends. Why not try self-publishing or licensing your board game? Both options have pros and cons, so your decision will come down to personal preference. Self-publishing gives you the most control over the final product but it can be challenging to get into distribution channels.

On the other hand, licensing opens up many doors for marketing and distribution, but there is less creative freedom in how your game looks.

When choosing between self-publishing and licensing your board game you must make an important decision: do you want more creative freedom or easier access to potential distributors? It all comes down to what’s most important for YOU and your custom board game.

What is a board game, and what are the different types of board games

The first thing you need to know is what a board game is. A board game is a game where you move pieces on a special surface according to a set of rules.

There are many different types of board games from well-known classics like Monopoly to newer games like Betrayal at Baldur’s Gate. Board games can be broadly categorized into several different genres:

  • Strategy games: These are games that require players to make decisions that will affect the game’s outcome. Examples of strategy games include chess and Settlers of Catan.
  • Tactical games: Tactical games are usually focused on military conflict and often involve combat between players. Games like Risk and Axis& Allies are examples of tactical games.
  • Cooperative games are when players work together to complete a task or goal. Pandemic and Forbidden Island are two well-known cooperative board games.
  • Miniature war games: Board games use miniature figures to represent armies or units in battle. Warhammer 40,000 and Warmachine are two popular miniature wargames.

2. How do you self-publish a board game?

Self-publishing a board game is the process of independently producing and releasing your game without the involvement of a third-party publisher. This means that you will be responsible for everything from manufacturing to marketing to distribution.

There are a few different ways to ao about self-publishing your board game. The most popular method is to use a print-on-demand service like The Game Crafter or DriveThruCards. These services will print and ship your game for you which takes a lot of the hassle out of self-publishing.

Another option is to find a local game store or hobby shop willing to sell your game on consignment. This can be a great way to get your game in front of potential customers but finding a store willing to take on a new and unknown game can be difficult.

3. How do you license a board game?

Licensing a board game is the process of giving someone else the right to produce and release your game. This is often done with the help of a third-party publisher, who will handle everything from manufacturing to marketing to distribution.

There are a few different ways to license your board game. The most common method is to sign an exclusive licensing agreement with a publisher. This means that they will be the only company allowed to produce and sell your game for a certain period.

Another option is to sign a non-exclusive licensing agreement, which would allow multiple companies to produce and sell your game. This can be a great way to get your game into more stores, but it can also be difficult to negotiate fair terms for both you and the publisher.

4. What are the benefits of self-publishing a board dame?

There are a few key benefits to self-publishing your board game:

  • You have complete creative control: When you self-publish, you get to make all the decisions about your game. This includes everything from the art and graphics to the rules and gameplay.
  • You can release your game on your schedule: One of the biggest advantages of self-publishing is that you aren’t beholden to anyone else’s timeline. You can release your game when it’s ready not when a publisher says it’s ready.
  • You keep all the profits: When you self-publish, you get to keep 100% of the profits from your game sales. This is a big advantage over licensing where you would have to split the profits with a publisher.

5. What are the benefits of licensing a board game?

There are a few key benefits to licensing your board game:

  • You can reach a larger audience: One of the biggest advantages of licensing is giving you access to a larger distribution network. This means that your game will be available in more stores and online retailers which will help it reach a wider audience.
  • You can get help with marketing and promotion: Another big advantage of licensing is tapping into a publisher’s marketing and promotional resources. This can be a huge help in getting your game in front of potential customers.
  • You can focus on designing games: One of the big advantages of licensing is that it frees you to focus on designing games. You won’t have to worry about manufacturing shipping or any other self-publishing logistics.

6. What are the disadvantages of self-publishing a board game?

There are a few key disadvantages to self-publishing your board game:

  • You have to do everything yourself: When you self-publish, you are responsible for everything from manufacturing to marketing to distribution. This can be a lot of work. and it can be difficult to do everything independently.
  • You might not reach as many people: One of the biggest disadvantages of self-publishing is that you might not reach as many people as you would if you licensed your game. You won’t have access to a publisher’s distribution network
  • You might not make as much money: Another big disadvantage of self-publishing is that you might not make as much money as you would if you licensed your game. This is because you’ll have to split the profits with a publisher.

7. What are the disadvantages of licensing a board game?

There are a few key disadvantages to licensing your board game:

  • You might not have as much control: One of the biggest disadvantages of licensing is that you might not have as much control over the final product. A publisher will have to approve any changes you want to make to your game.
  • Your game might not be released: One of the biggest risks of licensing is that your game might never be released. A publisher could decide not to publish your game for many reasons.

8. Which option is better for you?

The best option for you will depend on your specific situation. If you want complete control over your game and don’t mind doing all the work yourself, self-publishing might be the best option.

However, licensing might be the better option if you want to reach a larger audience and don’t mind giving up some control. Ultimately, it comes down to what you look for in a publishing experience.

Which Tomatoes Pack the Biggest Health Benefits

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There are many different factors to consider when deciding which type of tomato to grow. You can choose based on factors such as overall size, flavor and color, suitability for slicing, growing method and ease of maintenance. However, there is one consideration that is often overlooked – nutritional value.

If the nutritional content of tomatoes is a complete mystery to you, don’t worry! This handy guide will examine some of the nutritional components. This handy guide will look at some popular tomato varieties and help you understand the health benefits of specific tomato nutrients.

A Closer Look

Believe it or not, not all tomatoes are created equal. Each variety has its own nutritional profile and therefore different benefits. Here’s a closer look at nine popular heirloom varieties and one traditional grocery shop hybrid.

Deciphering the Color Wheel

Colour can be an important indicator of the nutritional content of a particular tomato variety. The color can give you a general idea of how dense certain nutrients are in the tomatoes you choose.

You may want to consider growing several different colors to take advantage of all the nutritional benefits that each color can provide – plus you can achieve a range of flavors by using them. There are four main categories of tomato color.

1. Red and pink tomatoes

Because they are the most common, you may think that red tomatoes have the best nutritional value. A popular belief is that the deep red color signifies that a tomato has high levels of lycopene; however, this isn’t always accurate. While the lycopene in these tomatoes may be high, it is not as effectively absorbed by our bodies because it is actually trans-lycopene. As for other nutrients, red and pink tomatoes have average levels compared to some other colors.

However, you shouldn’t avoid eating them. Red and pink tomatoes are still an excellent source of key nutrients such as lycopene, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium.
and potassium. These colors are great for salads and sauces, as well as other dishes.

2. Yellow and orange tomatoes

As far as yellow and orange tomatoes are concerned, the theory of light versus dark colors definitely applies. Compared to their red cousins, yellow and orange tomatoes are less sweet and less acidic, and are characterized by a lower content of the compound lycopene. However, they are a rich source of vitamin C and potassium – similar to other colored tomatoes.

They are great to add to soups and salads due to their signature sweetness.

3. Green tomatoes

Green tomatoes are unique when it comes to their nutritional profile. When it comes to vitamin C and potassium, their levels are very similar to those of a typical red tomato. However, the levels of vitamin A are very low and lycopene is almost non-existent.

Of the other colors on this list, green tomatoes are less nutritious, but they have a lot to offer in terms of flavor and color. They are a great addition to salsas and salads. You could also try cooking some fried green tomatoes.

4. Black, brown and purple tomatoes

If green tomatoes are lightweights, then purple, brown and black tomatoes are definitely heavyweights. The nutritional value of these dark tomatoes greatly exceeds that of all other colored varieties. These colors provide high levels of lycopene, vitamin A, vitamin C and potassium, so they are nutritionally complete compared to the lighter colors.

Black, brown and purple tomatoes are also full of flavor and often have a surprisingly sweet taste. These colors of tomato will create unique sauces, salads and desserts.

Breaking Down Nutrients

As mentioned above, tomatoes are an important source of many nutrients. Further, every tomato has different densities of these nutrients.

While we all know that nutrients are important and we want to have a lot of them, do we really understand what they do for us? Take a look at what each of these vital nutrients can do for your health.

Lycopene

The most abundant compound found in tomatoes, lycopene is likely the first thing that comes to mind when you consider tomato nutrients. Lycopene is a carotenoid pigment that is typically associated with red foods such as tomatoes and a few other fruits including watermelon – though tomatoes and tomato products are a much denser source.

For example, watermelon, on average, has only two-thirds the amount of lycopene than tomatoes do in a serving. Lycopene is also a powerful flavonoid antioxidant, which is known for having many beneficial health effects.

Expert tip: While raw tomatoes have many benefits, cooking them releases the full health nutritional power of lycopene.

Health Benefits:

  • Can reduce risk of skin cancer and sunburn by protecting skin from UV rays
  • Can protect against the development of breast cancer and prostate cancer
  • Effective at lowering LDL cholesterol
  • Improves heart health, lowering the risk of heart attacks
  • Protects bone tissue, helping to prevent the onset of osteoporosis

Potassium

Potassium is an essential mineral that can be found in most foods to some degree – but tomatoes have an abundant source of it. This mineral is a necessary element of your overall health and maintaining normal body functions.

Many tomato varieties are considered high-potassium food. A medium red tomato offers more potassium than other powerhouse foods such as carrots, brussel sprouts, avocado, and squash.

Health Benefits:

  • Supports the function of tissues and organs
  • Helps you maintain fluid balance
  • Reduces risk of stroke
  • Keeps the digestive system functioning normally
  • Regulates blood pressure and promotes heart and kidney health

Vitamin A

When processed, the carotenoid pigment beta-carotene is converted into Vitamin A, which is an essential nutrient. Like lycopene, Vitamin A is another flavonoid antioxidant that has many advantages for our health.

While the vitamin A levels in tomatoes pale in comparison to beta-carotene-packed carrots – which offer 113% of our daily values – tomatoes are still a great source for this beneficial nutrient.

Health Benefits:

  • Protects against lung cancer and cancers of the oral cavity
  • Promotes healthy mucus membranes, skin, and bones
  • Improves general eye health and protects from age-related vision problems
  • Boosts the immune system

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for every diet and works as a powerful antioxidant. While tomatoes may not be the first fruit that comes to mind when you think about vitamin C, they are actually an excellent source of the nutrient, with a medium red tomato providing up to 40% of daily values.

Some tomatoes actually have levels of vitamin C that are comparable to oranges. However, it should be noted that, unlike lycopene, much of the vitamin C could be lost in the cooking process.

Health Benefits:

  • Boosts the immune system
  • Provides resistance against infections and harmful free radicals

Adding Color to Your Tomato Garden

Do you want to know more about the nutritional content and health benefits of tomatoes? Let us know in the comments below!

The Benefits of Freezing Your Fall Vegetables

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When you have your own garden, you can sometimes find yourself with a large supply on hand, before the vegetables start to spoil and you can eat them reasonably well. Freezing vegetables at home is a quick and easy way to preserve produce at the peak of its maturity and nutritional quality.

In addition, this will extend your supply, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of your garden long after the growing season is over. Check out our useful infographic for more benefits of freezing, as well as some beginner tips on the process.

Why You Should Freeze Your Vegetables

There are many reasons to freeze your home-grown vegetables – extending the life of your product is just one of them. Here are some other benefits of freezing vegetables.

1. Nutrient-rich

When you freeze vegetables at their peak, you are preserving their nutritional quality. Many studies have shown that the nutritional content of frozen produce is often comparable to, and sometimes better than, that of fresh fruit and vegetables. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about any health benefits being lost during the freezing process. However, for optimum quality, you should usually consume your frozen produce within 8 to 12 months of freezing.

2. It’s safe

Freezing is a very natural process and a safe way to extend the life of your produce. It prevents the growth of microorganisms and slows down the activity of enzymes that cause food to spoil. This way, you can enjoy the bounty of your garden for longer. According to the USDA, food kept at the standard recommended home freezer temperature of 0 degrees Fahrenheit will always be safe to eat.

3. It’s cost effective

Not only does freezing have many health benefits, but it’s good for your wallet too! If the fruits of your gardening labor are provided by your friends, then you can save them. If the fruits of your gardening labor extend into the winter months, you won’t have to buy store-bought imports. No matter what time of year it is, you can save money by making restaurant-quality meals at home from frozen ingredients in your own backyard garden.

4. It’s delicious

It may be a given – but frozen produce is delicious! By freezing ripe veggies, you can freeze them. By freezing ripe vegetables, you can enjoy the delicious, crisp taste of home-grown autumn vegetables long after your neighbors have had to resort to store-bought or seasonal fruit and vegetables.

How to Start a Garden – Guide for Beginner

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When learning how to start a garden, the most important thing to remember is the soil. The condition of your garden soil will often determine the success of your gardening adventures!

Because most yards are not equipped with the healthiest, most fertile soil, this may mean that you will have to do some building of the area before you can do any planting.

However, before we dive into how to start a garden with healthy soil, let’s choose a spot for your garden.

Where’s the sun?

All of the planting related information on this site discusses location, location, location, as this is often where the success or failure of your project lies.

Where's the sun?

I’m serious, don’t underestimate this! Put your garden in the wrong location (like in “partial sun”) and you will be disappointed with the results.

It’s a vegetable garden, so you need a full sunspot! If your vegetable garden is in a “half sun” location, then you will be disappointed with the results. Whether this is a raised bed garden, or a standard garden plot, choose a spot that gets at least 6 hours of full sun per day.

With this raised bed built in a sunny spot, it will be the perfect place to start a garden.

Look at the location you are considering and make sure the area receives “full sun” as a success criterion. If you want to be sure, you can get a sunshine calculator to measure it.

OK, now for the soil…

Get your hands dirty!

You will need good, healthy, fertile, well-drained soil in order to grow the healthiest, most vigorous vegetable plants possible.

How do you do this?

There are several options.

You can have a few cubic yards of good topsoil delivered to your home and spread that topsoil in your garden.

This is probably the best way to do it, however, depending on the location of your garden, you may have to “dump” the soil on your land and then transport it to the new location one wheelbarrow at a time.

Now, I’m not saying this is a bad option, but it is labor intensive. Take that into consideration before you do that.

Buy a few bags of soil

Another option is to buy a few bags of soil at your local garden center and spread it where you plan to plant.

Depending on how much you buy, this option may be more expensive, but it may be easier to manage. These bags are usually not very heavy and can be handled by most people.

Learning how to start a garden can be tricky if the area you want to plant is covered with grass or sod. If you’re building a garden in an area that is currently covered with sod, try double digging it! You can start planting. You will be able to start planting immediately and will avoid using toxic chemicals to kill the grass.

Once you have added topsoil, you should follow steps 4 and 5 on this page. In addition to adding compost, I recommend adding some sphagnum peat moss (available at most garden centers) to help make the soil more porous for root growth. Vegetable gardens can be less resistant to the effects of compacted soil than most perennials.

Make sure you mix, or till, all of these ingredients together. Not only will this distribute all the ingredients correctly, but it will make the soil very light and easy to work with and create a perfect growing environment for new garden plants.

Where do I put these plants?

Bottom line: put them where you want!

Some people like perfectly lined up rows of veggies,

  • One row of carrots
  • One row of tomatoes
  • And one row of lettuce
  • etc etc etc

but I prefer the “hodge podge” look myself!

The hodge podge look is not highly scientific, and in fact pretty much involves throwing the plants anywhere in the garden you want them.

Where do I put these plants?

Maybe not the best method, but it’s worked for me for years using simple veggies and herbs such as zucchini, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, basil, pumpkin, lettuce, oregano and corn.

If you’d like to put a bit more thought into it, take a peek at how to lay out a garden for some ideas and tips that are a bit more well-thought out.

Plant the plants

Assuming you have purchased all your plants from your local garden center, you are ready to put them in the ground. You can certainly buy seeds and/or plants online, but if you are new to vegetable gardening, I suggest you take the easy route and buy your plants locally. They are already established and relatively inexpensive.

Once you are more familiar with the whole gardening process, you can grow plants from seeds and start a few plants at different intervals. For example, you could start a row of lettuce one week, a row the next, and a row the next. This will ensure that your “harvest” is spaced out, and that you’ll have a consistent lettuce binge for a few weeks.

Again, if you are new to this, I wouldn’t worry about it. Take your time, get familiar with the process, and then start improving it over the next year.

Follow step 8 on this page to put your vegetables in the ground. If you purchased your plants early in the season, you shouldn’t have any problems with “root binding,” but the pictures on that page will help you determine if this is the case.

Be sure to give the plant the space specified on its growth label. Although these babies are small now, they will grow quickly and will spread significantly If you don’t give them the space they need, they won’t grow to their full potential.

Do I need to fence in the area?

It definitely depends on what you are growing!

Most of the plants I used in the “hodgepodge” design discussed above do not need to be predator-proof …..EXCEPT …. Peppers (rabbits seem to like them) and pumpkins (once they turn orange). My pumpkins were fine and dandy until I noticed they were turning bright orange and I left them on the vine that night. The next morning I noticed all the pumpkins had holes in them and the contents had been removed.

Oooooo…., I was so mad!

But cutting those pumpkins off the vine and putting them on your front porch? They are safe as can be. Go check it out!

Oh, and the corn is usually safe until the ears start showing, then the squirrels come. I don’t know how to stop squirrels because they can climb anything…… Scarecrows do work, or use bright, shiny, overhanging objects to keep them away. This predator is something I fight a lot and I haven’t figured out the best way to deal with them.

Berries, such as raspberries and blackberries, are able to survive in the wild and therefore do not need protection, but you will have a hard time growing strawberries without some type of netting over the beds. I have a specific method for growing strawberries that seems to work well.

Should you mulch it?

I find that if I place a small amount of mulch around my plants, it is easier for me to take care of my garden on a regular basis. I don’t use any heavy or inorganic material and usually stick to a light sprinkling of grass clippings. And I do this to minimize weed growth, but also to make it easier to walk through – muddy shoes in the garden are no fun.

Weeds are a gardener’s nightmare! And they can be particularly challenging to deal with. Considering the fact that you can’t use pesticides in your garden, dealing with these weeds is especially challenging. The substance can harm or destroy valuable plants, as well as seep into the soil, get into the roots of vegetable plants, and then be “drunk in”. This would mean that you are essentially putting poison inside your home grown vegetables.

I don’t think that’s what you’re aiming for when you plant a garden.

Therefore, you will be forced to seek some type of organic weed control to manage the weeds in your garden. You will also need to regularly till the soil of your garden to ensure that the weeds do not take over.

Remember that weeds grow much faster than vegetable plants, and keeping them at bay will be a major part of your job during the first few weeks of caring for your garden.

Should you fertilize?

It really is a matter of personal choice.

I don’t feel the need to apply any fertilizer during the growing season, although I know most gardeners do. I personally don’t want any substance on my plants or vegetables, even if it is supposedly harmless.

My method of fertilizing my garden is to add compost at the beginning of the season. Another method I’ve tried is to bury compost material (prior to composting – such as raw vegetable pieces, coffee grounds, tea bags, etc.) directly into the soil a few weeks before the planting season begins. Compost enriches the soil and provides a delicious and nutritious bed for garden plants.

Final thoughts

Of course watering your plants will be critical to their success and longevity.

And while you’re there, share your own tips! Almost everyone knows something special about working in the garden, and we’d love to hear your own special tip!

How to Lay Out a Garden

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When you think about how you want to arrange your garden, it really depends on how deep you want to go in the process.

  • Do you want to scatter a few tomato plants among your perennials?
  • Or are you looking for major vegetable production? Let’s say we eat most of our meals from the vegetables we grow in the garden! That’s what we’re aiming for.

Let’s assume that you have checked out the information on how to start a garden and that you have chosen a good spot and amended the soil properly.

I will also assume that you have a general idea of the type of vegetables you want to grow in your garden.

There are some plants, such as radishes, that are thought to be particularly helpful in keeping certain pests at bay, so even if you don’t care for them, it might be a good idea to plant them.

Likewise with marigolds …… Their ‘pest-proofing’ abilities are a good addition to the garden, so it’s a good idea to keep them there too.

Those exceptions aside, plant what you like! Because frankly, it would be a good choice. Because frankly, it will give you the most pleasure in your garden.

Which plants should you consider when researching how to set up your garden?

Type of plants

This can be a difficult decision, especially for someone like me, because I want to grow them all!!!

But to be honest, I can’t grow them all, and I’m not going to pretend that I can.

More importantly, I’m not going to pretend that I like all of them!”.

For example, green beans are easy to grow and look great on a homemade trellis, but I don’t like them, nor does anyone else in my family. What good is growing it going to do me?

Start with a good list of what you’d like to plant

Most garden vegetables are fairly easy to grow and maintain as long as they have at least six hours of sunlight and a good supply of water.

When researching how to set up a garden that best suits your needs, consider the types of plants you like to grow. Some plants will need to be grouped together or separated for pollination purposes and to get the most out of each plant.

Pay attention to what’s on the label when buying plants. The sweet corn seeds I purchased specifically stated that there should be at least 2 rows of corn planted together to ensure cross-pollination and that they should be planted separately from other corn varieties.

If you buy plants from your local garden shop, the label should specify how they should be planted to ensure maximum yield.

Vegetables that I have had great success with when growing in groups or individuals are.

Tomatoes – One of the easiest vegetables to grow and produces the highest yields. (They should not be grouped with corn or potatoes).

Courgette – Requires little maintenance!

Lettuce – Plant a new row (by seed) every week for several weeks to ensure a consistent harvest.

Peppers – Can be a little more temperamental and need fertile, well-drained soil.

Potatoes – Throw some potatoes in the ground and before you know it, you’ll have a whole crop. Another vegetable that requires little maintenance.

Basil – Grows quite well, especially in good soil.

Cilantro – Try planting it in containers rather than in the garden and harvesting it every 2 weeks. This will keep it from getting tall and thin.

Oregano – This is actually a perennial herb that is easy to grow in the garden.

Pumpkin – Fairly easy to grow, but prone to fungus on the leaves. The fungus doesn’t always affect the harvest.

Corn – Easy to grow, but watch out for those squirrels! Chances are they will find the corn before you do!

Carrots – Another vegetable that can be a bit difficult to grow…… Plant in fertile, well-drained soil.

If these plants can survive with me, chances are they can survive with you too! 🙂

How much space do they need?

Let’s discuss each one and how, in general, they should be laid out and how much space each one needs.

Tomatoes – Plant several tomato plants together, leaving enough space for them to spread to maturity. I planted several varieties, one for popping like a cherry, one for slicing in sandwiches, and one for sauces. The plants grow very large compared to the initial small plants, usually greater than 4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide.

Courgette – This plant takes up so much space that you may only need one (seriously, no one eats that much courgette). You may end up bringing some to your neighbors or co-workers. It’s only about 1-2 feet tall, but at least 3 feet wide.

Lettuce – Lettuce you want to plant in rows and label well so you know where it is. When the small leaves appear it will be difficult to tell if it is a weed or not. You will also be harvesting a lot of lettuce at once, so plant several rows, a week apart.

Peppers – Plant at least 2-3 pepper plants together. They are usually not as big as tomato plants and the harvest is less obvious, so you will need to plant a few in your garden.

Potatoes – I put a few potatoes in the compost pile and lo and behold, come autumn, I had a very healthy potato crop! That’s why I need to grow a few potatoes. A few potatoes are all you need! You won’t look like you have a lot on top of the soil, just a tall, somewhat skinny plant.

Basil – add this plant anywhere in your garden. It has shiny green leaves that are very attractive and small white flowers. You probably won’t need more than one plant unless you plan to dry it and use it as a spice all year round. Grows to about 2-3 feet and 1-2 feet wide.

Cilantro – try growing it in a container rather than in the garden and harvesting it every 2 weeks. This will keep it from getting tall and thin. Even better, plant 2 containers and alternate harvesting one every week.

Oregano – Plant this plant every year and you will see it come back time and time again. Its spreading habit can actually cause some problems, so be careful where you decide to put it.

Pumpkins – Oh my goodness, these pumpkins need space! You will probably only get a few pumpkins. You may only get a few pumpkins from each plant, but it will grow into this long trailing plant that meanders around the garden. Pumpkin vines can easily grow to 10 feet or more, with large leaves that will eventually keep other plants out. Don’t plant these next to lettuce or you’ll never see it again!

Corn – Corn should be planted in 2 rows with at least 2-4 plants to ensure cross-pollination.

Carrots – Same advice as lettuce, plant several rows, a week apart each, to ensure a consistent harvest. As with potatoes, there is not much happening above ground and they don’t spread much.

That concludes my advice on how to set up your garden. I hope this helps you get a head start on your own yard.

If you want more specific plans on how to set up your garden, check out Free Garden Plans for Small Houses in the Suburbs. I love this site.

Remember, when it comes to gardening, there really are no mistakes! Everything is a learning experience …… Everything is a learning experience …… Some things will work for you and some won’t.

Whatever you do, feel free to explore all the ways you can set up your garden.

Best Trampoline Buying Guide 2022 – Reviews & Ratings

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We understand that buying the best trampoline is not an easy task, as there are different aspects to be considered before you can make your purchase decision. Here, we will take a lot at some of the main features customers want in the trampolines they buy.

But first, you should be able to answer some of the following questions:

What are you trying to use the Trampoline For?

Before making the final decision, it is crucial to determine the type of usage the trampoline is being bought for. That is where the age groups, household segmentation, and individual goals play an imperative role.

Family Trampolines

Family Trampolines

They are usually made with a versatile use in mind across different ages. So these are not too big, are mostly round and evenly spread the force. Family trampolines are also known as mini trampolines or rebounders.

Water Trampolines

Water Trampolines

People who are interested in taking watersports to the next level should try some of the different water trampoline options. They are springless and float in water and can be great fun for people who love to be a part of pool parties and are interested in beach adventures.

Kid Trampolines

These are smaller in size, round and come with extra padding and enclosure netting. Frames can also be made of plastic.

Olympic Trampolines

Olympic Trampolines

Large, rectangular trampolines with extra padding to reduce impact. They require great skill to maintain control so should not be used by the common man.

Are you Buying the Safest Trampoline?

All the Top rated trampolines in the market give high importance to safety. The safest trampoline should be smoothly welded and should not accidentally cut people during a bounce. It should have a sturdy metal frame with smooth, rustless pipe edges.

If you are opting to buy a Spring trampoline, then it should have covered springs, or if it is for kids that you should look for a trampoline that is springless, less bouncy to add safety for children.

Safety is also considered to be the number one consideration of most parents buying the best trampoline for their children. It is of utmost importance that the kids stay safe and secure while jumping on their trampolines. When buying for young children aged 3 – 10, look for trampolines that offer bounce protection as well as safety enclosures.

Are Size And Placement Important?

Where you will place the trampoline will decide the size and shape of your trampoline, and hence, also the cost.

For example, if you have a huge backyard with a family of 5 to 10 members then you should look at the Skywalker trampoline with a full enclosure that is considered to be the best trampoline for backyards.

It has a lightning-quick Enclosure System installation set-up with no bolts, screws, brackets, braces or pole caps. Push-pin technology allows for a fast, easy setup and break-down of the trampoline’s frame and enclosure system.

Getting Familiar with Different Shapes

There are four basic geometric designs for trampolines. Each has its own strengths and different shapes are best suited for distinct uses.

Round Trampoline

Round Trampoline

This type of trampoline is advised for kids below the age of 6. Parents don’t need to worry all the time since this is probably the safest trampoline so far and children can use it freely.

It is decreasing the chances of injury because of the spring circular setup that pushes jumpers towards the middle of the mat. The highest build generally is 18tf.

Rectangular Trampoline (like the Olympians jump on)

Rectangular Trampoline

Competitive trampolinists and skilled gymnasts use this kind of shape. They are taking more space than previous trampoline shapes and are more expensive. This shape provides the best and most powerful bounce and gives professional jumpers the height and length that acrobatic activity demands.

Square Trampoline

Square Trampoline

This type of model offers a combination of benefits for both rectangular and round trampolines. More bouncing than a round trampoline, offer a large jumping area and are much safer than their rectangular counterparts. They are a very good choice for those people who have less space and want a powerful bounce since they take up less room than the rectangular model.

Octagon – a novelty?

It usually provides a little more jumping space, and it’s a lot like a circular model. Instead of an octagonal model people are better off getting a rectangular or round trampoline, simply because they are much more costly.

Oval Trampoline

Oval Trampoline

The oval trampoline I found has a larger usable surface than a similar round trampoline. Users have a wider jumping surface from one side to the other while maintaining the self-centering feature of a round trampoline. As with all large trampolines, using an oval unit requires extra effort to get a big bounce.

What Type of Bounce are You Looking For?

Choosing the type of bounce is critical because many people will show dissatisfaction if their trampoline doesn’t have enough bounce for their jumping routine. This is true for children and adults alike.

It is important for your child to have the right type of bounce on their trampoline because it protects them from any injuries or falling off the trampoline. This is the beauty of Bazoongi trampolines for kids because they provide just the right amount of bounce for kids so that they do not have any possible accidents while jumping.

As an adult, you should choose between a hard bouncer and a soft bouncer, depending on your body’s endurance. If you are looking for a way to exercise outdoors, the hard bouncer category is suitable for gymnasts who like a challenge. These trampolines are made of resilient, hard-wearing materials that deliver a solid, hard bounce, allowing you to stretch your muscles and exercise your body.

The 36 coil springs are rust-proof, durable and made of high-quality steel wire to provide extra bounce to your jumps.

What Makes a Trampoline Best For kids?

Apart from the age group and skill set which is a significant factor in determining the suitability of a trampoline. Some of the other factors that have been listed below can not be ignored while making the purchase decision.

  • Safety and control of bounce.
  • Choosing between covered or springless versions of different trampolines.
  • Determining whether accessories like a ladder and enclosure netting are needed.

What Makes a Best Family Trampoline?

Did you know that trampolining can be a great family activity? It’s both healthy as it allows you to exercise your muscles, and fun because you and your kids can do jumping sessions together!

We have added some top suppliers to our portfolio of best trampolines such as Zupapa Trampolines which brings you the Giant Square Trampoline, which measures 15’ x 15’ and can accommodate your entire family.

It can be installed outdoors in the sun, so your kids will get healthy doses of vitamin D as they play and hence can be considered be one of the best outdoor trampolines, Featuring a top-grade Permatron mat, a high quality galvanized steel frame and 116 ultra-bouncy springs. This trampoline is the perfect addition to homes with young kids.

However, due to its high durability, superior design, and spring less jumping capabilities.

The Thunder Trampoline with Enclosure by Vuly is considered to be the best family trampoline and is an amazing option for some idyllic family time.

This is a soft-edged trampoline fitted with highly durable leaf springs that give a fun, secure bounce.

The net is very sturdy and the frame is coated with rust-resistant powder, which ensures this trampoline will last you a good few years!

What Makes the Best Trampoline for Adults?

What Makes the Best Trampoline for Adults?We have gathered some data from the past purchases and came to a conclusion that some of the best trampolines designed for aged people such as gymnasts, athletes and fitness lovers will always have the following features in the trampoline they buy.

  • Ample jumping space can become a playing factor for a majority of the adults who are planning to make the purchase.
  • The shape of the trampoline becomes a critical feature to consider because it can be directly correlated with the goals and ambitions of the buyer, i.e. somebody who wants to buy a trampoline for gymnastics might need a lot of jumping space, therefore, choosing a rectangle trampoline might be the best option for him/her.
  • Sufficient padding to help avoid any pains and keep this sports injury free, having sufficient padding on the trampoline can make them safe to use. Therefore whenever you are making the purchase, be sure to look for the padding the trampoline is using.
  • Easy set-up and storage can be cumbersome while joining all the parts together. Having a step by step instruction manual and easy to assemble trampoline solutions have always been our top most priority, and we try our best to provide this information to make the assembly process easy and time-saving.

Buying The Best Trampoline Brand Is The Only Way To Go!

Below, is our “cheat sheet” which shows the most important features for some of the best trampoline brands sold on this website. Click on the trampoline name to visit the actual product page and see each trampoline’s full features.

Top-Rated Trampolines Reviews For 2021

A trampoline is one of the best ways of keeping your kids healthy and spending some quality family time. These playthings are available in a range of brands, designs, sizes, colors, and materials.

Our panel of experts has selected the top 8 trampolines that provide some desirable features— safety, affordability, and a great bouncing experience.

1. Zupapa 15-14-12 Ft TUV Trampoline

Zupapa trampolines come in a variety of sizes and are one of the most popular trampolines for a reason. It has a good balance between quality and price, maintaining a high level of quality while still being affordable.

The “TUV” at the end means that it has been certified by TUV Nord, a highly respected European certification body for sports equipment, household appliances, toys and DIY products. They are a very strict organization and it’s not easy to get them to sign off on your product, so if you see this symbol, you know that you are using the highest quality possible.

And quality is what you get from this German made trampoline. Made of heavy-duty galvanized steel, you hardly have to worry about rust. The legs are wide and braced to provide a high level of stability and are attached to safety net poles for added strength and to prevent twisting from regular use or weather patterns.

The springs are also made of heavy-duty galvanized steel and there are 108 on the 12-foot model, compared to 96 on most other trampolines.

Perhaps the best part of this product is that when you order it comes with all the accessories you need, including a galvanized steel ladder, netting and a rain cover. It shows up on your doorstep in three boxes, which can be intimidating, but it’s actually very easy to install and requires very few tools.

While this product has a lot to recommend it, it does have a few issues. Perhaps worst of all, the customer service is absolutely terrible. You may not have to contact them, but if you do, expect to have a hard time finding someone authorized to help you, and even sometimes a hard time getting a response.

That said, working through Amazon will give you the customer service cushion you need and provide a great trampoline.

2. Skywalker Trampolines 12-Feet Round TrampolineSkywalker Trampolines 12-Feet Round Trampoline

Skywalker is generally ahead of the curve when it comes to trampoline technology, which means “safety” in most cases, and that is definitely on display here. One of the safest and most fun trampolines on the market, Skywalker’s 12-foot round trampolines are great for families with one or two kids who want to play at the same time.

Their pads are tightly woven for strength and have some of the best springs to make each jump a dry one. The material is great and will stand up well to the elements, sometimes lasting for years without any visible damage other than fading.

An often overlooked feature is the padding of the frame, and the padding on this model is really great. Thick and soft, I believe that unless you want to jump on metal, you don’t have to worry about hitting this or climbing up/down causing serious injury.

Another nice feature is that the safety net actually snaps onto the frame so your child doesn’t accidentally slip under the net or the top of the net doesn’t slide down, making it easy to jump over.

If there’s any obvious downside to the Skywalker 12-footer, it’s that it’s hard to put up. It doesn’t require a lot of tools, but the instructions are poorly written and there are probably more parts than strictly necessary. I’d almost rather it come in more boxes and have parts already assembled than have to put every little thing together myself.

3. Kangaroo Hoppers 15-Feet Round TrampolineKangaroo Hoppers 15-Feet Round Trampoline

If there’s one word to describe the 15-foot circle of the Kangaroo Jump, it’s “sleek.

This trampoline looks better than the kind of bouncer James Bond would use and is constructed of black powder-coated galvanized steel.

The legs are actually bent to follow the curve of the frame, providing greater stability and eliminating “hot spots” where the trampoline can become unbalanced by trying to get on board at one of the cut-off edges.

The springs are super strong and resilient. Coupled with a heavy-duty pad that feels like it’s bursting with potential energy, you can get some serious height with this pad. The webbing is taut and seems ready to catch any disobedient jumpers, plus it comes with a zippered door that provides easy access while ensuring maximum safety.

All of the metal is treated to ensure that it can be rust-free on the outside, and the materials that make up the frame pad and mat seem to be designed to be able to handle a wide range of temperatures and weather patterns.

A wonderful change was that when I had to call customer service regarding a missing part, they were very helpful and friendly and shipped out a whole package of parts the next day. I’ve even read stories of people whose trampolines were damaged in the hurricane and the company sent them a brand new one for free! That’s a company that cares about its employees. This is a company that cares about its customers.

While a 15 foot round bed for a kangaroo jump is a bit pricey for what you get, it’s definitely worth paying extra for a trampoline you can trust.

4. Skywalker Trampolines Square TrampolineSkywalker Trampolines Square Trampoline

While the price is higher, when you consider their square trampoline, I still think Skywalker deserves two spots on this list. It’s not as sophisticated as their round version, but there’s a lot to recommend it.

The entire frame is made of galvanized steel with a weather-resistant finish, plus its interlocking for easy assembly.

Each corner has a leg that runs through it for optimal stability, and each leg extends upward to a security fence post that curves over it for a little added comfort in the design.

The fence itself has no gaps, so you don’t have to worry about someone flying out of an unprotected spot, or that spot getting bigger over time. In fact, in most cases, the square Skywalker exceeds ASTM safety standards.

The biggest problem with this model is that it doesn’t feel very secure. The bolts they sent in are just a little too long.

They are still sturdy enough to stay in place, but they make the frame wobble when people jump on them. I don’t think this will cause any real damage, but it can be nerve-wracking to watch your child and see the whole thing move slightly.

Also, the springs aren’t super impressive. They’ll get the job done, but for the price, I’d expect it to be more than just “adequate”.

5. Upper Bounce 15-Foot TrampolineUpper Bounce 15-Foot Trampoline

This rebounder by Upper Bounce is extremely easy to assemble and disassemble, making it perfect for climates with rough winters.

Being able to easily take apart your trampoline and store it away can save you many headaches which is why it is one of our recommended models.

Important Specifications:

  • Easy assemble/disassemble feature
  • Jumping mat made of premium PP mesh with 8 row stitching
  • Premium 1″ thick foam spring cover with 450g PVC on top and 310g PE on bottom
  • Rust resistant galvanized double powder coated steel frame
  • 330 lb. weight capacity
  • 96 x 7.5″ springs
  • Safety enclosure

Besides just being easy to assemble and disassemble, this model is also made out of extremely high quality parts as well. The powder coated frame is extremely durable and rust resistant, and both the trampoline and the enclosure can be put together with no tools required.

The jumping mat on this model is made of a premium polypropylene mesh material with 8-row stitching to prevent tearing and lengthen the lifespan of the rebounder. The safety pad on this model contains foam that doesn’t soak in water or mildew, as well as never even lose its shape.

The safety enclosure netting is even made out of 100% premium Terylene mesh material that is extremely durable and weatherproof. You can buy this model in many different sizes such as 7.5, 12, 14, 15 and 16-Feet.

6. ExacMe 15-Foot TrampolineExacMe 15-Foot Trampoline

This ExacMe 15ft. trampoline received many great reviews because it feels sturdy and secure, and unlike many other models it actually has a high weight capacity.

All the parts seem to be very well made and you can tell that it will last for a long time.

Important Specifications:

  • Frame made of rust-resistant galvanized steel
  • 108 galvanized springs
  • PP jumping material
  • Safety net made of PE mesh netting
  • 6 W-shaped legs
  • 375 lb. weight capacity
  • Ladder

The 6 W-shaped legs give the rebounder 12 balanced contact points with the ground making it feel very safe and stable. Thanks to the 108 galvanized springs the bounce is extremely good as well.

Another good aspect of this rebounder is that it meets all of the ASTM, TUV, and GS quality and safety requirements. This helps because you know you have less to worry about when it comes to the well-being of your children.

7. Springfree 13-Foot Jumbo Square Trampoline
Springfree 13-Foot Jumbo Square Trampoline

If you want the safest trampoline for your kids (and don’t mind spending a little extra money), then you’ll have to get the Springfree 13ft jumbo square trampoline.

Springrfree considers this to be “the world’s safest trampoline”, and the consumer reviews seem to agree.

Important Specifications:

  • Double powder coated galvanized steel frame
  • Flexible fiberglass rods (no springs)
  • Flexible safety enclosure
  • Hands free webbing on enclosure
  • 330 lb. weight capacity
  • Flexible basketball hoop
  • UV resistant polypropylene nets & mats
  • Surface area of 16 ft. trampoline with springs
  • Safe ladder

There are many common injuries associated with jumping on a trampoline, and while some brands do their best to prevent them – there’s only so much they can do. This forces many parents to avoid trampolines altogether. To fix this problem, Springfree decided to come out with its own patented design that eliminates as many of those common injuries as possible.

While most rebounders use dangerous metal springs, the Springfree jumbo trampoline uses flexible fiberglass rods. These flexible rods are positioned below the outside ring of the mat and connect to the galvanized steel frame.

To ensure the trampoline will last for many years to come, the steel frame is double powder coated and even waxed on the inside. It’s also located far below the mat and is completely out of harm’s way.

Because Springfree trampolines have no need for foam padding, they come with their own SoftEdge mat. This mat is 30 times more shock absorbent than regular foam padding and is built to last much longer. This is thanks to the simple idea of covering the stitching on the mat with yellow webbing.

The last and most impressive feature of this rebounder is the Flexinet. This safety enclosure is so flexible that you can actually jump up against it and bounce right back. This is achieved by using (once again) flexible fiberglass rods instead of the traditional steel poles.

8. Skywalker 15-Foot Round TrampolineSkywalker 15-Foot Round Trampoline

The Skywalker 15-foot round trampoline is the best-selling model on Amazon by far, and for good reason too.

It’s extremely well built and comes with a top-of-the-line safety enclosure that will last you for many years if properly taken care of.

The Skywalker Trampolines 15 feet is known for being affordable as well as safe which makes it the top choice if you are on a budget and yet want the best.

One of the most important features of the trampoline is the safety enclosure. Skywalker has done a commendable job when it comes to the attachment of the jumping mat with the enclosure.

It is observed that for trampolines with enclosures there is always a gap between the bottom of the enclosure and the top of the jumping mat, but there is no such gap in this product.

Important Specifications:

  • Stay-put enclosure that interlocks to the jumping mat
  • The patented button-hole feature which eliminates gaps between the safety net and rebounder
  • Enclosure netting made of polyethylene for better durability and UV protection
  • 96 x 6 ½” rust-resistant springs
  • Extra thick spring pad
  • 200 lb. weight capacity
  • Frame made of 16 gauge galvanized rust-resistant steel
  • 6 W-shaped legs
  • Reinforced T-sockets connect the enclosure to the frame

Just by reading the consumer reviews of this Skywalker trampoline, you will begin to see why it’s so popular. Everything is built to last and it’s even extremely simple to put together. The safety net on this model works better than most thanks to their patented design which interlocks the netting to the mats v-rings. This eliminates the gaps for kids to fall through – making it much safer to jump on.

Thanks to the 96 springs which are 6 ½ inches long there is plenty of bounce which is essential for a great trampoline. You can buy this model in red, blue, green and camo as well as choose between different sizes such as 8, 10 and 12-feet.

How We Choose Our Trampoline

Here are some of the most important things we investigated and considered before purchasing a new trampoline. We reviewed and compared various features to make sure we were buying the right unit.

Buying Guide

There is a wide range of trampoline sizes. Home-use trampolines generally range in size from six-foot to 17-foot in diameter. Of course, we wanted the biggest bang for our buck here, but we had to measure the yard space we had available first, making sure to leave ample leeway on all sides.

We wanted to buy a big model, but we couldn’t cram a 17-foot trampoline into the small space we allotted. My rule of thumb is that you need at least 5-10 feet clearance on all sides of the trampoline. Moreover, you need head clearance. I wanted our yard to have a vertical clearance of 25 feet infinity for absolute safety.

When determining which size was best for our yard, I made sure to check for out buildings, fences, poles, power lines and any other impediments that may be potential hazards.

There are smaller sizes available to accommodate limited space, but you need to make sure the size and model you select is the best trampoline for all the members of your family.

Other Important Features to Consider

Important Features to ConsiderOnce you have decided on the size and shape, then you need to consider these important features to make sure you get the best trampoline possible for your money.

Failure to consider these features could cause you to waste money and possibly risk the safety of you or your children.

Springs

Good quality springs are extremely important and will determine the lifespan and the bounce of your trampoline. To determine the balance of a trampoline you will need to figure out the number of springs as well as their length that a particular model has.

A high quality rebounder should have a spring length of at least 6 to 6 ½ inches long or else it will have very little bounce. This is often a sign of a weak frame as well. Since longer springs mean more stress on the frame due to the bigger bounce, you will often see more cheaply made models with short springs because of this.

Weight Limit

Make sure to take into account the weight of all the people that will be jumping on the trampoline before ever making a purchase. Going over the maximum weight capacity could lead to many problems which will cause the lifespan of your rebounder to end early.

Frame Quality

Having a high quality frame is essential when looking for the best trampoline possible. Since the framing is what holds the whole rebounder together it is probably the most important feature to take into consideration. You need to check to see if the frame on the model you’re wanting to buy is welded and if so you need to look at the quality of the weld.

If the weld is rough and patchy and looks very unprofessionally done then I would definitely stay away from that model. Bad welding on a frame means that it is very weak and it could even cut anyone that rubs against it. I would personally recommend getting a frame that uses T-bar joints because it requires less welding if any at all. T-bar frames are usually very strong and can typically hold more weight than any other type of framework.

Safety Features

Safety should be your number one priority when buying a trampoline for your kids. These important features will help greatly reduce the risk of injury of anyone jumping on the rebounder.

  • Padding – Make sure the padding isn’t made out of a cheap tarp material that you typically find in a home improvement store. Instead get padding that is made of PVC or polyethylene (PE) to ensure that it last for at least 2 to 3 years
  • Enclosure – Having a safety enclosure will make it so that your kids won’t be able to fall off the trampoline and injure themselves. You want to make sure the foam railings aren’t covered with that cheap tarp material as well if you can.
  • Anchor Kit – Keeps the trampoline connected to the ground and makes it so that a big gust of wind is never able to pick it up and move it. This ensures that the rebounder doesn’t get damaged and neither does anything else nearby. Depending on where you live this might be essential.

Don’t Forget The Ladder

Trampolines Ladder

The ladder allows for easy access to and exit from the trampoline platform. More importantly, removing the ladder between uses prevents young children from getting on the trampoline without adult supervision.

A Lower Enclosure?

A lower enclosure prevents pets and people from getting under the trampoline. It also prevents balls, other objects and debris from accumulating under the jumping surface.

When the trampoline is in use, children and pets can be injured by getting under the trampoline, and objects under the jumping mat can injure the user. This is a simple issue for me.

After feeling a little reluctant about these extras, I finally bought into the idea. Safety is paramount.

Choosing the Right Size

Making sure you get the right size of a trampoline is extremely important. You want to make sure not to get a rebounder too big if it’s meant for small children nor one too small if it’s meant for bigger kids.

You also want to consider your kids growing up and outgrowing the particular sized model you get them.

Before you ever go shopping or read trampoline reviews you want to look at the layout of your backyard first. The size of your rebounder needs to fit perfectly on a flat surface so everything is stable.

If it leans on any side then it will make jumping more difficult and it could harm the trampoline over time as well.

Make sure you will have about a yard of clear ground around the edges as well as around 8 yards of clearance overhead. Make sure everything around the trampoline is perfectly safe if anyone ever happens to fall off to avoid unnecessary injury.

 

Fall Flower Box Ideas

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The first brisk evening of fall broke through the warmth of summer and suddenly awakened us to the arrival of the season. It seems that one day we are enjoying long days and picnics, and the next day we are greeted with fall soccer and early morning frosts. These crisp nights also tend to herald the end of our gardening season. The less hardy plants start to wilt and die and your garden starts to turn brown.

The thought of all your hard work steadily disappearing with each falling leaf is a disappointing, albeit inevitable, end to the summer. So, don’t let it be the end of your garden season! Take back fall with your flower boxes and hanging baskets, as they are a great way to extend your gardening season beyond Halloween, and even extend the color of your garden into Thanksgiving. Once your summer annuals are done blooming, it’s time to start working on some plants and flowers that will last longer in your hardiness zone. Don’t forget that some plants will look great in your flower boxes even after the first frost and will provide color later in the year.

Chrysanthemums, or daisies, are very common and colorful fall flowers. Today’s gardeners have many different varieties, including some very hardy plants that can be perennials all the way to zone 5! Chrysanthemums also make great container plants. Chrysanthemums are also great container plants and work very well in flower boxes. Choose 2-3 different colors to provide a nice, varied display. If you wish, you can use a palette of fall colors such as orange, yellow and dark red. They match your traditional Halloween and Thanksgiving decorations.

Pansies

PansiesPansies are a great way to add some vibrant color to your fall flower boxes. While pansies are not tough enough to last as perennials in winter areas, they thrive in the cooler weather that fall offers and some varieties can even survive light snow. Pansies come in a wide variety of colors, making them a great choice for filling gaps in flower boxes or hanging baskets.

Ornamental cabbages and kale provide great foliage centerpieces around which to build fall flower boxes and hanging baskets. There are several different varieties, all of which come in different shapes and sizes. As the weather gets colder, these plant centers become brighter in color and really provide a great color base for fall flower boxes and hanging baskets.

Don’t let fall by the end of your beautiful garden. With a little research and care, you can have flower boxes and hanging baskets that will extend your growing season and bring extra color and beauty to your outdoor decor at a time of year when most people give up.

Window Sill Garden: Make the Most of your Flower Boxes

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Want to decorate a deck or porch. Highlight a window? Spice up a balcony or fence rail? Consider planting flower boxes to create mini-gardens that are sure to add color and personal style to your home.

FG_FlowerBox_Gardening_1Think about achieving maximum visual appeal with your flower boxes. Don’t make the all-too-common mistake of planting just a few flowers in a row. Flower boxes will look best and will attract compliments when they’re abundant, bountiful and lush.

When planting a flower box, consider using various colors, different heights and textures to create visual impact.  Think in layers from back to front using taller plants in the back, shorter fuller plants in the middle and shorter blooms or even trailers overflowing the box in front. Experiment and try new things in different combinations.

Digging in

Soil-less mixes are recommended, particularly for flower boxes that are to be suspended. A soil-less mix will help to avoid overly waterlogged boxes that may become too heavy and eliminates the need for using stones at the bottom for drainage.

Better still, a soil-less mix encourages the plants to grow to provide better aeration for the roots and good drainage, while retaining necessary moisture. Slow-release and water-soluble fertilizer will also help your box plantings to thrive.

FG_FlowerBox_Gardening_2To plant, start in the back center and work your way out, then the middle, then the front  Make the hole a little larger than the roots.  Remove the plant from its container and loosen the roots, place the plant in the hole and fill it with soil.  Gently firm and level out the soil, and finally, water thoroughly.

Watering and Care

Regular watering is essential for plants exposed to full sunny days. Water frequently throughout the hot summer months. Water until you see water dripping from the bottom of the box. You can add a layer of mulch to the top to help flowers retain moisture. Pinch off and remove dead and decaying flowers and leaves to keep up appearances and to eliminate possible soil contamination from bacteria.

Flower boxes are an ideal way to grow your favorite flowers and a decorative way to add splashes of color to your outdoor life.

How to Harvest Seeds From Flower: Save Your Money

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Growing your own plants goes hand-in-hand with producing your own seeds. Perhaps you are concerned about saving a particular type of seed or you want to trade seeds with a friend. Harvesting seeds is the perfect way to free up your garden budget for décor or other projects. Here are a few tips to help you harvest seeds.

Spot your seeds

Nearly all plants develop seeds behind their faded flowers. Seeds can be stored in pods, heads, capsules or fruits. Seeds range in size from small specs of dust to the size of a fingernail.

Secure your seeds

The key to success in seed saving is to wait until the seeds have fully matured but not yet fallen off the plant. Fruit and vegetable seeds are harvested when the fruit is ripe while flowering plant seeds can be harvested after they have dried on the plant.

Store your seeds

Make sure your seeds are clean and dry before saving them in an envelope, jar or seed packet. Label the container with the plant’s name, preferred growing conditions and any other information you may want to remember for next year. Seeds remain usable for up to four years when stored safely.

Although you can harvest seeds from all plant types, annuals are the easiest. Try some of these prolific annual flowers for easy seed-saving:

  • Cleome
  • Datura
  • Larkspur
  • Marigolds
  • Morning Glory
  • Nasturtium
  • Poppy
  • Snapdragons

How to Care For Succulents: The Basics Tips

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Beginner and advanced gardeners alike appreciate succulents for their beautiful and enduring qualities. You’ve heard of the most famous succulent plants such as aloe, agave and cacti. No matter which type you choose to grow, here are some simple rules to follow to keep your succulents happy and healthy all year long.

Light

Succulents require bright light and prefer to be placed near a south-facing window. Fortunately, succulents’ leaves are able to tell you if the plant is getting the correct about of light. Brown or white leaves mean the plant is getting too much direct sunlight. Stretched out stems and widely spaced leaves indicate the plant is underlit.

Temperature

Often found in the desert, succulents are used to extreme temperature contrasts between night and day. Although they can survive colder nights with temps down to 40°F, their preferred temperature range is between 70ºF and 85ºF during the day and between 50ºF and 55ºF at night.

Water

Generously water your succulents in the summer, but allow the potting mix to dry between waterings. During the winter, succulents need water only once every other month. Overwatered plants will appear soft and discolored. If this happens, try removing the plant’s dead roots and repotting into a drier potting mix. On the flip side, underwatered plants will develop brown spots, stop growing and shed leaves.

Soil

Look for a potting mixture that is designed for cacti and succulents. You could also use a normal potting mix with added perlite for increased aeration and drainage. The mixture should be, most importantly, fast-draining. Fertilizer should be used only during the summer growing season.